System loophole could allow rapists, murderers to work with kids

The state opposition says it’s outrageous some convicted rapists and murderers can use a loophole to apply for a working with children check.

According to the Courier Mail, those who commit such crimes against adults are not automatically precluded from making a Blue Card application.

The LNP’s Deputy Leader Tim Mander says the loophole needs to be closed by changing the law.

“This is a real concern for us and we think the people of Queensland as well,” he tells Steve Price.

“We’ve got to make sure that we get this right and make sure there is absolutely no chance that any child in Queensland can be exposed to people that have these kinds of criminal records.”

The Attorney-General’s office has responded, saying there is no way people with a history of such heinous crimes would be approved.

But Mr Mander says it can’t be guaranteed.

“There’s always a slip up that can happen in bureaucracies. We don’t want them even getting into the system it the first place.

“It’s obviously not something that was intended. But now the government’s got to act very, very quickly and bring in legislation to make sure that there is absolutely zero chance of somebody getting through the system.”